Carlos G. Zapata

Carlos G. Zapata, born on 21 July 1922, entered into rest on 4 August 2010, after a brief battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Emma Lee Zapata, they would have been married for 65 years on 8 August 2010. Mr. Zapata is also survived by his family that include his son David V. Zapata of Rockport; daughter Dolores and her husband Amador Garza of San Antonio; grandchildren Carlos Garza, Annette Sanchez, Denise Garza, David E Zapata, Steven Zapata, and Michelle Hilbig (deceased); greatgrandchildren Catherine, Caroline and Carlos T. Garza, Adam Sanchez, Jacob and Emilee Hilbig, and David Rylan Zapata. Mr. Zapata was born and grew up in San Antonio. He enlisted in the Army in July 1940. Duty called him to the African and European theaters. He was captured in an attack in Italy and was a prisoner of war for over 15 months. Amongst his many decorations were the combat infantryman's badge, bronze star and purple heart with two clusters as well as many campaign and service medals. After his return to San Antonio Mr. Zapata attended San Antonio College and received his Associates Degree. He started his career at Kelly Air Force Base chiefly as an Industrial Engineering Technician in the Supply Directorate. After his retirement in January of 1980 , Carlos and Emma Lee enjoyed traveling and spent time exploring the United States, Europe, Africa, Alaska, Canada, and Mexico. Their favorite pastime though was spending time watching their grandchildren and great grandchildren growing up. Mr. Zapata was active in the Disabled American Veterans organization and was Commander of Chapter 25 in San Antonio. He was also active in the Woodman of the World Association, also leading the local chapter as President. In lieu of flowers the family requests that friends and family make a donation to a veterans group such as the Disabled American Veterans, Wounded Warriors or the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Services will include visitation from 6 to 9 pm, with a rosary at 7 pm, at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home on Bandera Rd on Monday, August 9, 2010. Mass will be at 11 am Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Helotes. Interment will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with full military honors.